On Thursday, October 11th the Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center unveiled their refurbished computer lab.

In partnership with the City of Orlando, the Magic provided furniture, computers, an over-head projector and screen, and hardwood floors. The Magic also enhanced the lab with new paint and framed Magic photos. The Magic donated more than $48,000 for this project.

On hand for the unveiling were the James R. Smith Neighborhood Center kids and seniors, Orlando Magic center Adonal Foyle, Magic Chief Operating Officer Alex Martins, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, and City Commissioner Samuel B. Ings of District 6.

The computer lab will provide a program that addresses the need for children to learn computer skills. The lab will also be available to community residents in the area.

Foyle spoke to the kids at the center about overcoming obstacles, the importance of education and encouraged the community to take advantage of the classes being offered.

The Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center was built in 1983. An addition was built in 1996 including a weight room, teen room and gym. The facility was named after Dr. James R. Smith, a prominent physician from Aurora, Illinois who became the first black physician in Orlando to establish a maternity clinic for black women. In addition to his medical career, Dr. Smith found time to better his community.

The Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center provides services for all families in District 6, including Washington Shores, Ivey Lane, Willie Mays Park, Richmond Heights, Lake Richmond Estates, Lake Mann Gardens, Lake Mann Holmes, Orange Center, Isles of Catalina and Carver Shores.